US20210276381A1 - Bracket for providing a pivoting joint - Google Patents
Bracket for providing a pivoting joint Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20210276381A1 US20210276381A1 US17/191,986 US202117191986A US2021276381A1 US 20210276381 A1 US20210276381 A1 US 20210276381A1 US 202117191986 A US202117191986 A US 202117191986A US 2021276381 A1 US2021276381 A1 US 2021276381A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- apertures
- bracket
- trailer tongue
- tongue
- trailer
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims description 22
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims description 22
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 22
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000004904 shortening Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000002775 capsule Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60D—VEHICLE CONNECTIONS
- B60D1/00—Traction couplings; Hitches; Draw-gear; Towing devices
- B60D1/24—Traction couplings; Hitches; Draw-gear; Towing devices characterised by arrangements for particular functions
- B60D1/42—Traction couplings; Hitches; Draw-gear; Towing devices characterised by arrangements for particular functions for being adjustable
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60D—VEHICLE CONNECTIONS
- B60D1/00—Traction couplings; Hitches; Draw-gear; Towing devices
- B60D1/14—Draw-gear or towing devices characterised by their type
- B60D1/145—Draw-gear or towing devices characterised by their type consisting of an elongated single bar or tube
- B60D1/155—Draw-gear or towing devices characterised by their type consisting of an elongated single bar or tube comprising telescopic or foldable parts
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
- F16C11/00—Pivots; Pivotal connections
- F16C11/04—Pivotal connections
Definitions
- the present invention relates a bracket for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue and for optionally securing accessories to the trailer tongue.
- a trailer tongue keeps a trailer attached and at a distance from the tow vehicle.
- the tongue keeps the trailer in balance when towing and assists in keep weight on the tow hitch which is required for controlled towing.
- the tongue is generally a fixed length that is sufficient to keep the trailer and any watercraft or other equipment towed on the trailer a specific distance from the rear end of the tow vehicle. This means generally that the overall length of the trailer is long, especially for larger watercraft. Trailers for larger or longer watercraft generally do not fit within the depth of a garage, in that the tongue adds a length preventing inside storage of the trailer.
- An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a bracket for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue. This allows for the selective positioning of the pivoting joint and thus allowing for the temporary shortening of the length of the trailer tongue and/or allowing for the pivoting connection of a marine accessory attachment to the trailer tongue, which may also allow for storage and use positions of the marine accessory in a compact or extended position set by the pivoting joint.
- the bracket has a first surface having a plurality of first apertures therein and a second surface having a plurality of second apertures therein wherein the first surface and the second surface are connected by a 90 degree bend and wherein one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot pin therethrough and one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot position securing mechanism therethrough.
- the bracket has a third surface having a plurality of third apertures therein wherein a second 90 degree bend integrally connects the third surface to the second surface and wherein the plurality of third apertures are spaced apart on the third surface to align with one or more of the plurality of first apertures.
- the bracket wherein alone or in combination with a second bracket of identical construction, is configured for a marine accessory to be secured to the second surface or second surfaces and thus secured to the pivoting joint and wherein the marine accessory may be a stair.
- Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue to selectively reduce to the overall length of the trailer tongue having one or more brackets having a first surface having a plurality of first apertures therein and a second surface having a plurality of second apertures therein wherein the first surface and the second surface are connected by a 90 degree bend and wherein one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot pin therethrough and one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot position securing mechanism therethrough.
- a coupling component can be provided for securing to a first section of trailer tongue and wherein the one or more brackets pivotally secure the first section of the trailer tongue to a second section of trailer tongue and wherein the coupling component has one or more apertures for aligning with one or more of the first apertures of the bracket.
- the bracket further includes a third surface having a plurality of third apertures therein wherein a second 90 degree bend integrally connects the third surface to the second surface and wherein the plurality of third apertures are spaced apart on the third surface to align with one or more of the plurality of first apertures.
- Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue to selectively reduce to the overall length of the trailer tongue by providing one or more brackets having a first surface having a plurality of first apertures therein and a second surface having a plurality of second apertures therein wherein the first surface and the second surface are connected by a 90 degree bend and wherein one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot pin therethrough and one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot position securing mechanism therethrough.
- a coupling component is provided for securing to a first section of trailer tongue and wherein the one or more brackets pivotally secure the first section of the trailer tongue to a second section of trailer tongue and wherein the coupling component has one or more apertures for aligning with one or more of the first apertures of the bracket.
- the bracket has a third surface having a plurality of third apertures therein wherein a second 90 degree bend integrally connects the third surface to the second surface and wherein the plurality of third apertures are spaced apart on the third surface to align with one or more of the plurality of first apertures.
- the method can further include modifying a trailer tongue by separating the tongue into two sections for insertion of the pivoting joint therebetween.
- the method can further include providing two brackets and two coupling components for providing the pivoting joint to the trailer tongue.
- Providing the pivoting connection includes separating the tongue into two sections and installing one of the two brackets on a top surface of a first section of the trailer tongue and the second of the two brackets on a bottom surface of the first section of the trailer tongue as well as installing one of the two coupling components on a top surface of a second section of the trailer tongue and the second of the two coupling components on a bottom surface of the second section of the trailer tongue.
- the pivoting connection is provided by way of connecting at least one of the two brackets to at least one of the two coupling components with a pivot pin.
- FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a bracket for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue.
- FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the bracket illustrated in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a bracket for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue.
- FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of another additional embodiment of a bracket for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue.
- FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the bracket of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5 .
- FIG. 6 illustrates the trailer tongue in a first position with a bracket secured thereto.
- FIG. 7 is a front view of a pivoting connection formed by the bracket with the trailer tongue in a second, pivoted position.
- a bracket according to the present disclosure is configured to provide a pivoting joint along a length of a trailer tongue.
- the bracket is connectable to a tongue of a trailer and can be used to form a swing tongue portion of the boat trailer.
- the bracket may optionally be connectable to an accessory for also mounting the accessory to a trailer.
- the bracket described herein can be used for providing a pivoting joint for a trailer tongue where the trailer may be a boat trailer.
- the pivoting joint is provided along a length of the trailer tongue to form what can be considered a “swing tongue.” That is, the bracket forms a pivotal or swing joint on a length of the tongue for connecting the trailer to a hitch or vehicle for towing.
- the bracket joins two length of the tongue so that the overall length of the tongue can be selectively reduced. When pivoted, a terminal length of the tongue can be folded or “swung” towards the bed portion of the trailer, thus effectively shortening the overall length of the trailer by reducing the length of the tongue. This allows for storage of the trailer in smaller areas such as garages.
- the terminal length of the tongue can then be swung back out into a position substantially parallel with a proximal length of the tongue and secured in such a position for towing or other trailer use.
- the bracket allows for selective shortening of the overall length of the trailer tongue and selective lengthening of the trailer tongue via pivotal connection of the two adjacent lengths of the trailer tongue.
- the bracket described herein can be provided in one or more configurations for use with various size trailers, and in one configuration, can be considered a universal bracket for providing a swing joint or pivoting joint along any size trailer tongue.
- One or more brackets may be used cooperatively to provide the pivoting joint along the trailer tongue.
- two brackets cooperate to form the pivoting joint along the trailer tongue.
- the brackets may be monolithic brackets of unitary construction. In some instances, two brackets of identical construction are provided for providing a pivotal joint to substantially any size trailer tongue.
- bracket 10 having dimensions such that the bracket 10 is a universal bracket 10 is illustrated.
- bracket 10 when bracket 10 is provided in pairs of two, the brackets 10 of identical construction are used to pivotally secure any trailer tongue to any trailer.
- a first bracket 10 in the pair is mounted on a first side such as a top side of the trailer tongue and a second bracket 10 in the pair is mounted on an opposing side of the assembly such as a bottom side of the trailer tongue.
- Such a bracket 10 allows for adjustable mounting of devices on any trailer tongue.
- the bracket 10 comprises a first side 12 and a second side 14 where the first side 12 and second side 14 are connected by a bend 16 which may be a 90 degree bend 16 .
- the first side 12 has one or more pivot apertures 18 therein and one or more securing apertures 20 therein.
- the second side 14 has one or more mounting apertures 22 therein.
- the one or more pivot apertures 18 and securing apertures 20 are positioned for mounting of the bracket to pivotally secure two sections of a trailer tongue and/or a trailer frame to a trailer tongue.
- the one or more pivoting aperture 18 positioning allows for selection of one or more apertures 18 for receiving a pivot pin there through, the apertures used are selected based in part on the dimensions of the trailer tongue.
- the mounting apertures 20 are positioned to also allow for selection of an aperture 20 for receiving a fastener there through and the aperture selected 20 in part on the dimensions of the trailer and tongue.
- the first side 12 may have a rectangular surface area extending from the bend 16 which tapers to an apex 17 at the terminal end of the side 12 .
- the second side 14 is rectangular as it extends away from the bend 16 .
- the first side 12 and second side 14 also have different lengths extending away from the connection point or bend 16 .
- a bracket 210 comprises a first side 212 and a second side 214 where the first side 212 and second side 214 are connected by a bend 216 which may be a 90 degree bend 216 .
- the first side may have a length that is about 2.75 to about 3 times as long as the second side.
- the first side 212 has one or more pivot apertures 218 therein and one securing aperture 220 therein.
- the second side 214 has one or more mounting apertures 222 therein.
- the one or more pivot apertures 218 and securing aperture 220 are positioned for mounting of the bracket to pivotally secure two sections of a trailer tongue and/or a trailer frame to a trailer tongue.
- Brackets 210 can be adjustably mounted to the trailer tongue and additional devices can be mounted to the trailer tongue via connection to the same bracket.
- the brackets 10 and 210 are of similar construction in that the distance between two brackets 10 , 210 in a pair of brackets is adjustable when mounting or installing.
- the one or more pivoting aperture 218 positioning allows for selection of one or more apertures 218 for receiving a pivot pin there through, the apertures used are selected based in part on the dimensions of the trailer tongue.
- the mounting aperture 220 is positioned to receive a fastener there through.
- the first side 212 may have a rectangular surface area extending from the bend 216 which tapers to an apex 217 at the terminal end of the side 212 .
- the second side 214 is rectangular as it extends away from the bend 216 .
- the first side 2 12 and second side 214 may also have different lengths extending away from the connection point or bend 216 .
- the bracket 210 may have a similar construction with reduced overall dimensions when compared to bracket 10 .
- bracket 10 may have a width of about four inches or more, for example, in the range of about 4 inches to about 7 inches.
- the bracket 10 has a width of side 14 about 4.2 inches.
- the bracket 210 may then have reduced dimensions where for example the width of side 214 is about 3 inches or more, for example in the range of about 3 inches to about 5 inches.
- a bracket 110 is of similar construction to the bracket 10 and includes a third side 123 to the bracket 110 .
- the bracket 110 thus the bracket 110 comprises a first side 112 and a second side 114 where the first and second sides 112 , 114 are connected by a bend or a corner such as a 90 degree bend 116 .
- a third side 123 is then connected by a second bend or a second corner such as a 90 degree bend 124 to the second side 114 .
- the first side 112 and third side 123 are generally parallel to one another and spaced apart and connected by the second side 114 extending therebetween.
- the overall shape of the bracket 110 is approximately a “U” shape.
- Both the first side 112 and third side 123 have a similar overall shape and dimension as well as corresponding one or more apertures 118 therein. These apertures 118 are positioned for mounting of the bracket 110 to pivotally secure a trailer tongue to a boat trailer and the aperture positioning allows for selection of one or more apertures 118 for receiving a fastener there through. The apertures used are selected in part on the dimensions of the trailer and tongue.
- the apertures 118 in each of the first side 112 and third side 123 may be aligned such that a fastener and/or pivot pin may be received through corresponding apertures 118 on the first side 112 and third side 114 .
- the first side 112 may have a rectangular surface area extending from the bend 116 which then tapers to an apex 117 at the terminal end of the side 112 .
- the second side 114 is rectangular or square as it extends a length away from the bend 116 towards the bend 124 .
- the third side 123 then similarly has a rectangular surface area extending away from the bend 124 which then tapers into an apex 117 at the end of the side 124 .
- the first side 112 and third side have the same or similar dimensions and the second side 14 may be a length extending between bends 116 and 124 the same or different than the length of the sides 112 , 114 extending away from the bend 116 , 124 .
- one or more apertures 118 are provided in the first 112 or third side 118 for purposes of allowing for the pivoting of the tongue with respect to the trailer at the bracket 110 .
- the apertures 118 are positioned to also allow for selection of an aperture 118 for receiving a pivot pin there through and the aperture 118 selected in part on the dimensions of the trailer and tongue.
- Additional apertures 120 are provided for securing a position of the trailer portions connected at the pivoting joint.
- the second side 114 may also be provided with one or more apertures 122 for receiving a securing a mechanism such as a bolt or the like, therethrough.
- the brackets 10 , 110 described here can be comprised of a metal such as steel or aluminum.
- brackets 10 , 110 are described for purposes of providing a pivoting joint to a boat trailer frame, such as along the trailer tongue, the bracket may be used to provide a pivoting joint along any trailer tongue or otherwise connecting two components together for forming a towable device. Moreover, the brackets 10 , 110 , can be used to secure separable components of a trailer tongue or frame, or components of a trailer tongue or frame that have been modified from a previously rigid or continuous unbending or non-pivoting state to provide a pivoting joint to an otherwise non-pivoting length of framework or trailer tongue.
- bracket 10 or 210 has a first side 12 , 212 that may be about 7.2 inches long and the second side 14 may be about 2.5 inches long.
- the apertures on the first side 12 include a plurality of oblong shaped apertures 20 and round or circular shaped apertures 18 .
- the circular shaped apertures 18 have a diameter of about 0.64 inches.
- the oblong apertures 20 can be described as having a capsule like shape or center rectangular area with arcuate terminal sections on two opposing ends where its largest length is about 1.14 inches.
- the apertures 22 on the second side 14 are round apertures 22 having a diameter of about 0.42 inches.
- two apertures 20 are aligned along the length of the first side 12 near the apex 17 and on a first axis where one oblong aperture 20 is spaced apart from the two apertures 20 along the same axis and aligned along said axis closer to the bend 16 than rounded apertures 20 .
- Additional apertures 20 are positioned on either side of the centered oblong aperture 20 and aligned on a second and third axis respectively and which are angled away from the first axis at an angle of about 25.77 degrees when the axis extends from the center of the apex adjacent round aperture 18 to a center portion of the aperture 20 that is spaced about 3.89 inches from the apex adjacent aperture 18 and along the second axis.
- one or more brackets 10 , 110 , 210 can be used to provide a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue alone or in combination with one or more coupling components 11 .
- the brackets 10 , 110 , 210 can be secured to a section of trailer such as a trailer tongue and the coupling components 11 may be considered adaptors 11 optionally used to facilitate the pivoting connection of the two sections of trailer tongue 13 a , 13 b by the bracket(s) 10 , 110 , 210 .
- Such an adaptor 11 may be fixedly secured via welding or otherwise integral to one or both portions of the trailer tongue for forming the pivoting joint.
- the adaptor 11 has an overall tapered or triangular shape with a wider portion extended off of the trailer tongue 13 b when installed, such that an overhang or wing is provided to allow for pivoting clearance for the trailer tongue portions 13 a , 13 b .
- a narrower portion of the adaptor 11 is fixedly secured to the trailer tongue 13 b such that the narrow end may be substantially the same or less than in width than the trailer tongue 13 .
- a first bracket 10 , 210 is installed on a top of the trailer tongue 13 a and a second bracket 10 , 210 is installed on a bottom of the trailer tongue 13 a , the brackets 10 , 210 aligned and positioned at a terminal, open end of the trailer tongue 13 a .
- bracket 110 When bracket 110 is used, only one bracket is required as the bracket 110 has a top and bottom surface for receiving the trailer tongue 13 there between.
- the brackets 10 , 210 allow for adjusting the distance between the bracket 10 , 210 in installation for use with nearly any trailer tongue 13 of varying sizes.
- a first coupling component 11 is then installed on a top of the trailer tongue 13 b and a second coupling component 11 is installed on a bottom of the trailer tongue 13 b , the coupling components 11 aligned and positioned at a terminal, open end of the trailer tongue 13 b .
- the pivoting connection is provided by way of one or more pivot pins connecting vertically aligned pivoting apertures of the bracket(s) and the coupling component(s).
- the trailer tongue portions 13 a and 13 b are pivotable about the connection as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 .
- a pivot pin may be provided for securing through an aperture in the bracket and into the adaptor which is secured to the opposing section of trailer tongue for pivotal connection or the pivot pin may be passed through the bracket and through a portion of the trailer tongue or attachment mechanism on the trailer tongue.
- the additional brackets can be used to secure the pivoting joint in a selected position.
Abstract
A bracket and method for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue where the bracket has a first surface having a plurality of first apertures therein and a second surface having a plurality of second apertures therein wherein the first surface and the second surface are connected by a 90 degree bend and wherein one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot pin therethrough and one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot position securing mechanism therethrough and where the bracket can further have a third surface having a plurality of third apertures therein wherein a second 90 degree bend integrally connects the third surface to the second surface and wherein the plurality of third apertures are spaced apart on the third surface to align with one or more of the plurality of first apertures.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/985,200, filed Mar. 4, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety.
- The present invention relates a bracket for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue and for optionally securing accessories to the trailer tongue.
- A trailer tongue keeps a trailer attached and at a distance from the tow vehicle. The tongue keeps the trailer in balance when towing and assists in keep weight on the tow hitch which is required for controlled towing. The tongue is generally a fixed length that is sufficient to keep the trailer and any watercraft or other equipment towed on the trailer a specific distance from the rear end of the tow vehicle. This means generally that the overall length of the trailer is long, especially for larger watercraft. Trailers for larger or longer watercraft generally do not fit within the depth of a garage, in that the tongue adds a length preventing inside storage of the trailer.
- An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a bracket for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue. This allows for the selective positioning of the pivoting joint and thus allowing for the temporary shortening of the length of the trailer tongue and/or allowing for the pivoting connection of a marine accessory attachment to the trailer tongue, which may also allow for storage and use positions of the marine accessory in a compact or extended position set by the pivoting joint.
- In one or more embodiments, the bracket has a first surface having a plurality of first apertures therein and a second surface having a plurality of second apertures therein wherein the first surface and the second surface are connected by a 90 degree bend and wherein one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot pin therethrough and one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot position securing mechanism therethrough.
- In another aspect of the present disclosure the bracket has a third surface having a plurality of third apertures therein wherein a second 90 degree bend integrally connects the third surface to the second surface and wherein the plurality of third apertures are spaced apart on the third surface to align with one or more of the plurality of first apertures.
- The bracket, wherein alone or in combination with a second bracket of identical construction, is configured for a marine accessory to be secured to the second surface or second surfaces and thus secured to the pivoting joint and wherein the marine accessory may be a stair.
- Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue to selectively reduce to the overall length of the trailer tongue having one or more brackets having a first surface having a plurality of first apertures therein and a second surface having a plurality of second apertures therein wherein the first surface and the second surface are connected by a 90 degree bend and wherein one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot pin therethrough and one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot position securing mechanism therethrough. A coupling component can be provided for securing to a first section of trailer tongue and wherein the one or more brackets pivotally secure the first section of the trailer tongue to a second section of trailer tongue and wherein the coupling component has one or more apertures for aligning with one or more of the first apertures of the bracket.
- In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the bracket further includes a third surface having a plurality of third apertures therein wherein a second 90 degree bend integrally connects the third surface to the second surface and wherein the plurality of third apertures are spaced apart on the third surface to align with one or more of the plurality of first apertures.
- Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue to selectively reduce to the overall length of the trailer tongue by providing one or more brackets having a first surface having a plurality of first apertures therein and a second surface having a plurality of second apertures therein wherein the first surface and the second surface are connected by a 90 degree bend and wherein one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot pin therethrough and one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot position securing mechanism therethrough. A coupling component is provided for securing to a first section of trailer tongue and wherein the one or more brackets pivotally secure the first section of the trailer tongue to a second section of trailer tongue and wherein the coupling component has one or more apertures for aligning with one or more of the first apertures of the bracket.
- In an aspect of the present disclosure, the bracket has a third surface having a plurality of third apertures therein wherein a second 90 degree bend integrally connects the third surface to the second surface and wherein the plurality of third apertures are spaced apart on the third surface to align with one or more of the plurality of first apertures.
- The method can further include modifying a trailer tongue by separating the tongue into two sections for insertion of the pivoting joint therebetween.
- The method can further include providing two brackets and two coupling components for providing the pivoting joint to the trailer tongue.
- Providing the pivoting connection includes separating the tongue into two sections and installing one of the two brackets on a top surface of a first section of the trailer tongue and the second of the two brackets on a bottom surface of the first section of the trailer tongue as well as installing one of the two coupling components on a top surface of a second section of the trailer tongue and the second of the two coupling components on a bottom surface of the second section of the trailer tongue. The pivoting connection is provided by way of connecting at least one of the two brackets to at least one of the two coupling components with a pivot pin.
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FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a bracket for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue. -
FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the bracket illustrated inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a bracket for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue. -
FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of another additional embodiment of a bracket for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue. -
FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the bracket of the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 5 . -
FIG. 6 illustrates the trailer tongue in a first position with a bracket secured thereto. -
FIG. 7 is a front view of a pivoting connection formed by the bracket with the trailer tongue in a second, pivoted position. - A bracket according to the present disclosure is configured to provide a pivoting joint along a length of a trailer tongue. The bracket is connectable to a tongue of a trailer and can be used to form a swing tongue portion of the boat trailer. Moreover, the bracket may optionally be connectable to an accessory for also mounting the accessory to a trailer.
- The bracket described herein can be used for providing a pivoting joint for a trailer tongue where the trailer may be a boat trailer. The pivoting joint is provided along a length of the trailer tongue to form what can be considered a “swing tongue.” That is, the bracket forms a pivotal or swing joint on a length of the tongue for connecting the trailer to a hitch or vehicle for towing. The bracket joins two length of the tongue so that the overall length of the tongue can be selectively reduced. When pivoted, a terminal length of the tongue can be folded or “swung” towards the bed portion of the trailer, thus effectively shortening the overall length of the trailer by reducing the length of the tongue. This allows for storage of the trailer in smaller areas such as garages. The terminal length of the tongue can then be swung back out into a position substantially parallel with a proximal length of the tongue and secured in such a position for towing or other trailer use. Thus, the bracket allows for selective shortening of the overall length of the trailer tongue and selective lengthening of the trailer tongue via pivotal connection of the two adjacent lengths of the trailer tongue.
- The bracket described herein can be provided in one or more configurations for use with various size trailers, and in one configuration, can be considered a universal bracket for providing a swing joint or pivoting joint along any size trailer tongue. One or more brackets may be used cooperatively to provide the pivoting joint along the trailer tongue. In some embodiments two brackets cooperate to form the pivoting joint along the trailer tongue.
- The brackets may be monolithic brackets of unitary construction. In some instances, two brackets of identical construction are provided for providing a pivotal joint to substantially any size trailer tongue.
- Referring to
FIGS. 1-2 , abracket 10 having dimensions such that thebracket 10 is auniversal bracket 10 is illustrated. For example, whenbracket 10 is provided in pairs of two, thebrackets 10 of identical construction are used to pivotally secure any trailer tongue to any trailer. In such an embodiment, afirst bracket 10 in the pair is mounted on a first side such as a top side of the trailer tongue and asecond bracket 10 in the pair is mounted on an opposing side of the assembly such as a bottom side of the trailer tongue. Such abracket 10 allows for adjustable mounting of devices on any trailer tongue. - In further detail as illustrated in
FIGS. 1 and 2 , thebracket 10 comprises afirst side 12 and asecond side 14 where thefirst side 12 andsecond side 14 are connected by abend 16 which may be a 90degree bend 16. Thefirst side 12 has one ormore pivot apertures 18 therein and one or moresecuring apertures 20 therein. Thesecond side 14 has one ormore mounting apertures 22 therein. The one or more pivot apertures 18 and securingapertures 20 are positioned for mounting of the bracket to pivotally secure two sections of a trailer tongue and/or a trailer frame to a trailer tongue. The one or morepivoting aperture 18 positioning allows for selection of one ormore apertures 18 for receiving a pivot pin there through, the apertures used are selected based in part on the dimensions of the trailer tongue. Themounting apertures 20 are positioned to also allow for selection of anaperture 20 for receiving a fastener there through and the aperture selected 20 in part on the dimensions of the trailer and tongue. - The
first side 12 may have a rectangular surface area extending from thebend 16 which tapers to anapex 17 at the terminal end of theside 12. Thesecond side 14 is rectangular as it extends away from thebend 16. Thefirst side 12 andsecond side 14 also have different lengths extending away from the connection point orbend 16. - In further detail as illustrated in
FIG. 4 , abracket 210 comprises a first side 212 and asecond side 214 where the first side 212 andsecond side 214 are connected by abend 216 which may be a 90degree bend 216. In one or more embodiments described herein, the first side may have a length that is about 2.75 to about 3 times as long as the second side. The first side 212 has one ormore pivot apertures 218 therein and one securing aperture 220 therein. Thesecond side 214 has one or more mountingapertures 222 therein. The one ormore pivot apertures 218 and securing aperture 220 are positioned for mounting of the bracket to pivotally secure two sections of a trailer tongue and/or a trailer frame to a trailer tongue. One ormore brackets 210 can be adjustably mounted to the trailer tongue and additional devices can be mounted to the trailer tongue via connection to the same bracket. Thebrackets brackets more pivoting aperture 218 positioning allows for selection of one ormore apertures 218 for receiving a pivot pin there through, the apertures used are selected based in part on the dimensions of the trailer tongue. The mounting aperture 220 is positioned to receive a fastener there through. - The first side 212 may have a rectangular surface area extending from the
bend 216 which tapers to an apex 217 at the terminal end of the side 212. Thesecond side 214 is rectangular as it extends away from thebend 216. Thefirst side2 12 andsecond side 214 may also have different lengths extending away from the connection point or bend 216. - The
bracket 210 may have a similar construction with reduced overall dimensions when compared tobracket 10. For example,bracket 10 may have a width of about four inches or more, for example, in the range of about 4 inches to about 7 inches. In one embodiment, thebracket 10 has a width ofside 14 about 4.2 inches. Thebracket 210 may then have reduced dimensions where for example the width ofside 214 is about 3 inches or more, for example in the range of about 3 inches to about 5 inches. - In the embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 4-5 , abracket 110 is of similar construction to thebracket 10 and includes athird side 123 to thebracket 110. Thebracket 110 thus thebracket 110 comprises afirst side 112 and asecond side 114 where the first andsecond sides degree bend 116. Athird side 123 is then connected by a second bend or a second corner such as a 90degree bend 124 to thesecond side 114. Thefirst side 112 andthird side 123 are generally parallel to one another and spaced apart and connected by thesecond side 114 extending therebetween. Thus, the overall shape of thebracket 110 is approximately a “U” shape. - Both the
first side 112 andthird side 123 have a similar overall shape and dimension as well as corresponding one ormore apertures 118 therein. Theseapertures 118 are positioned for mounting of thebracket 110 to pivotally secure a trailer tongue to a boat trailer and the aperture positioning allows for selection of one ormore apertures 118 for receiving a fastener there through. The apertures used are selected in part on the dimensions of the trailer and tongue. Theapertures 118 in each of thefirst side 112 andthird side 123 may be aligned such that a fastener and/or pivot pin may be received throughcorresponding apertures 118 on thefirst side 112 andthird side 114. - The
first side 112 may have a rectangular surface area extending from thebend 116 which then tapers to an apex 117 at the terminal end of theside 112. Thesecond side 114 is rectangular or square as it extends a length away from thebend 116 towards thebend 124. Thethird side 123 then similarly has a rectangular surface area extending away from thebend 124 which then tapers into an apex 117 at the end of theside 124. Thefirst side 112 and third side have the same or similar dimensions and thesecond side 14 may be a length extending betweenbends sides bend - Additionally, one or
more apertures 118 are provided in the first 112 orthird side 118 for purposes of allowing for the pivoting of the tongue with respect to the trailer at thebracket 110. Theapertures 118 are positioned to also allow for selection of anaperture 118 for receiving a pivot pin there through and theaperture 118 selected in part on the dimensions of the trailer and tongue.Additional apertures 120 are provided for securing a position of the trailer portions connected at the pivoting joint. Thesecond side 114 may also be provided with one ormore apertures 122 for receiving a securing a mechanism such as a bolt or the like, therethrough. - The
brackets - While the
brackets brackets - In one embodiment,
bracket first side 12, 212 that may be about 7.2 inches long and thesecond side 14 may be about 2.5 inches long. Thus, one or a pair of twobrackets first side 12 include a plurality of oblong shapedapertures 20 and round or circular shapedapertures 18. The circular shapedapertures 18 have a diameter of about 0.64 inches. Theoblong apertures 20 can be described as having a capsule like shape or center rectangular area with arcuate terminal sections on two opposing ends where its largest length is about 1.14 inches. Theapertures 22 on thesecond side 14 areround apertures 22 having a diameter of about 0.42 inches. - On the
first side 12, twoapertures 20 are aligned along the length of thefirst side 12 near the apex 17 and on a first axis where oneoblong aperture 20 is spaced apart from the twoapertures 20 along the same axis and aligned along said axis closer to thebend 16 than roundedapertures 20.Additional apertures 20 are positioned on either side of the centeredoblong aperture 20 and aligned on a second and third axis respectively and which are angled away from the first axis at an angle of about 25.77 degrees when the axis extends from the center of the apex adjacentround aperture 18 to a center portion of theaperture 20 that is spaced about 3.89 inches from the apexadjacent aperture 18 and along the second axis. - In the embodiment illustrated in 6-7, one or
more brackets more coupling components 11. Thebrackets coupling components 11 may be consideredadaptors 11 optionally used to facilitate the pivoting connection of the two sections oftrailer tongue adaptor 11 may be fixedly secured via welding or otherwise integral to one or both portions of the trailer tongue for forming the pivoting joint. In the embodiment illustrated, theadaptor 11 has an overall tapered or triangular shape with a wider portion extended off of thetrailer tongue 13 b when installed, such that an overhang or wing is provided to allow for pivoting clearance for thetrailer tongue portions adaptor 11 is fixedly secured to thetrailer tongue 13 b such that the narrow end may be substantially the same or less than in width than the trailer tongue 13. - In one installation, a
first bracket trailer tongue 13 a and asecond bracket trailer tongue 13 a, thebrackets trailer tongue 13 a. Whenbracket 110 is used, only one bracket is required as thebracket 110 has a top and bottom surface for receiving the trailer tongue 13 there between. Thebrackets bracket first coupling component 11 is then installed on a top of thetrailer tongue 13 b and asecond coupling component 11 is installed on a bottom of thetrailer tongue 13 b, thecoupling components 11 aligned and positioned at a terminal, open end of thetrailer tongue 13 b. The pivoting connection is provided by way of one or more pivot pins connecting vertically aligned pivoting apertures of the bracket(s) and the coupling component(s). Thus, thetrailer tongue portions FIGS. 6 and 7 . - When using any bracket configuration according to one or more embodiments herein, a pivot pin may be provided for securing through an aperture in the bracket and into the adaptor which is secured to the opposing section of trailer tongue for pivotal connection or the pivot pin may be passed through the bracket and through a portion of the trailer tongue or attachment mechanism on the trailer tongue. The additional brackets can be used to secure the pivoting joint in a selected position.
- Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.
Claims (12)
1. A bracket for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue, the bracket comprising:
a first surface having a plurality of first apertures therein and a second surface having a plurality of second apertures therein wherein the first surface and the second surface are connected by a 90 degree bend and wherein at least one of the plurality of first apertures is configured to receive a pivot pin therethrough and at least one of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot position securing mechanism therethrough.
2. The bracket of claim 1 and further comprising a third surface having a plurality of third apertures therein wherein a second 90 degree bend integrally connects the third surface to the second surface and wherein the plurality of third apertures are spaced apart on the third surface to align with one or more of the plurality of first apertures.
3. The bracket of claim 1 wherein in combination with a second bracket of identical construction, a marine accessory can be secured to the bracket and thus secured to the pivoting joint and wherein the marine accessory may be a stair.
4. The bracket of claim 1 wherein the plurality of first apertures are linearly aligned along a length of the first surface of the bracket.
5. A system for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue to selectively reduce to the overall length of the trailer tongue comprising:
one or more brackets having a first surface having a plurality of first apertures therein and a second surface having a plurality of second apertures therein wherein the first surface and the second surface are connected by a 90 degree bend and wherein at least one of the plurality of first apertures is configured to receive a pivot pin therethrough and at least one of the plurality of first apertures is configured to receive a pivot position securing mechanism therethrough; and
a coupling component for securing to a first section of trailer tongue and wherein the one or more brackets pivotally secure the first section of the trailer tongue to a second section of trailer tongue and wherein the coupling component has one or more apertures for aligning with one or more of the first apertures of the one or more brackets.
6. The system of claim 5 wherein the bracket further comprises a third surface having a plurality of third apertures therein wherein a second 90 degree bend integrally connects the third surface to the second surface and wherein the plurality of third apertures are spaced apart on the third surface to align with one or more of the plurality of first apertures.
7. The system of claim 6 wherein a marine accessory can be secured to the second surface of the bracket and thus secured to the pivoting joint and wherein the marine accessory may be a stair.
8. A method for providing a pivoting joint to a trailer tongue to selectively reduce to the overall length of the trailer tongue comprising:
providing one or more brackets having a first surface having a plurality of first apertures therein and a second surface having a plurality of second apertures therein wherein the first surface and the second surface are connected by a 90 degree bend and wherein one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot pin therethrough and one or more of the plurality of first apertures are configured to receive a pivot position securing mechanism therethrough; and
providing at least one coupling component for securing to a first section of trailer tongue and wherein the one or more brackets pivotally secure the first section of the trailer tongue to a second section of trailer tongue and wherein the at least one coupling component has one or more apertures for aligning with one or more of the first apertures of the bracket.
9. The method of claim 8 wherein the bracket further comprises a third surface having a plurality of third apertures therein wherein a second 90 degree bend integrally connects the third surface to the second surface and wherein the plurality of third apertures are spaced apart on the third surface to align with one or more of the plurality of first apertures.
10. The method of claim 8 wherein the method further comprises modifying a trailer tongue by separating the tongue into two sections for insertion of the pivoting joint therebetween.
11. The method of claim 8 wherein the method further comprises providing two brackets and two coupling components for providing the pivoting joint to the trailer tongue.
12. The method of claim 11 and further comprising:
separating the tongue into two sections;
installing one of the two brackets on a top surface of a first section of the trailer tongue and the second of the two brackets on a bottom surface of the first section of the trailer tongue;
installing one of the two coupling components on a top surface of a second section of the trailer tongue and the second of the two coupling components on a bottom surface of the second section of the trailer tongue; and
connecting at least one of the two brackets to at least one of the two coupling components with a pivot pin.
Priority Applications (1)
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US17/191,986 US20210276381A1 (en) | 2020-03-04 | 2021-03-04 | Bracket for providing a pivoting joint |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US202062985200P | 2020-03-04 | 2020-03-04 | |
US17/191,986 US20210276381A1 (en) | 2020-03-04 | 2021-03-04 | Bracket for providing a pivoting joint |
Publications (1)
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US20210276381A1 true US20210276381A1 (en) | 2021-09-09 |
Family
ID=77555457
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US17/191,986 Pending US20210276381A1 (en) | 2020-03-04 | 2021-03-04 | Bracket for providing a pivoting joint |
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US (1) | US20210276381A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2021178619A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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CN114251351A (en) * | 2022-01-12 | 2022-03-29 | 上海海事大学 | Bionic deployable structure and driving mechanism |
US20220282829A1 (en) * | 2021-03-04 | 2022-09-08 | Van Murphy Bed LLC | Bracket with rotatable and cantilevered support member |
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US4398742A (en) * | 1982-04-15 | 1983-08-16 | Sanders Robert W | Hinged drawbar for boat trailer |
US5445355A (en) * | 1994-05-17 | 1995-08-29 | Chen; Hung-Ming | Antenna-mounting device |
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US20220282829A1 (en) * | 2021-03-04 | 2022-09-08 | Van Murphy Bed LLC | Bracket with rotatable and cantilevered support member |
US11846387B2 (en) * | 2021-03-04 | 2023-12-19 | Van Murphy Bed LLC | Bracket with rotatable and cantilevered support member |
CN114251351A (en) * | 2022-01-12 | 2022-03-29 | 上海海事大学 | Bionic deployable structure and driving mechanism |
Also Published As
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WO2021178619A1 (en) | 2021-09-10 |
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